Word for the Week

Week beginning: 14th September, 2014

By Ian Miller | Amersham

'The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out'

'"It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase'

Proverbs 10:9 (NIV 1984) and Proverbs 20:14 (NIV 1984)

Certain areas of our professional life have unwritten rules about the way we operate which can make it difficult to maintain our integrity. The field of negotiation is such an area: talking of client's strengths whilst knowing their weaknesses and making low initial offers to test opponents before inching towards agreement. This can be done honestly but the temptation to be untruthful is strong: the Proverb could easily read "'the offer is too low, too low!' says the lawyer; then he goes and boasts to his client about the deal."

There is obvious practical wisdom in the security of integrity. Crooked paths may be found out by our opponents, they may well be obvious to our client and our Lord certainly sees them: there is no hiding dishonesty from Him. Preparation of an honest strategy and an honest answer to questions such as 'is that your final offer?' is wise. Desiring justice as between the parties should be a priority.

Asking God to help us maintain our integrity at all times as we work for Him is essential.

Prayer Points:

1) For integrity at all times as we seek to live for Jesus in our working lives.

2) For LCF staff as they seek to serve God in their work for the fellowship